I love the flavor of sweet potatoes, especially at this time of year. And, here's one of my favorite ways to enjoy their beta-carotene benefits. Cornbread and red wine, such as aromatic and fruity Côtes du Rhône, complement their earthy flavor and brilliant color. It's the perfect combination for a holiday feast.

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until the bell pepper is tender, about 8 minutes. Add the garlic; stir constantly for about 1 minute.

Stir in the stock, sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and dried plums. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat; stir in the sherry; cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Add the salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, spokesperson, freelance food writer, and the award-winning author of 13 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with gourmet flair. Paulette's most recently published cookbook is "The Complete 15-Minute Gourmet: Creative Cuisine Made Fast and Fresh." She is also the author of "A Beautiful Bowl of Soup" and "The Spirited Vegetarian," which was voted "Best Book in the World on Cooking with Wine" at the 2005 Gourmand World Media Awards. Paulette says that international travel is her favorite source of culinary inspiration.